Symphony Orchestra celebrates milestone birthday with Oldham Mayor

Oldham’s Symphony Orchestra have begun their early 60th birthday celebrations with a special performance in front of the Mayor.

The instrumentalist group, who officially mark their landmark year this Sunday, were hosted by Councillor Zahid Chauhan OBE, at Oldham Civic Centre.

It was there, in front of special guests and the borough’s civic silverware, where the orchestra performed to rapturous applause.

Members of the group were then invited by the Mayor, honorary patron of the orchestra, for an informal cake-cutting ceremony and some light refreshments in the Mayor’s parlour to mark the occasion.

Speaking after the orchestra’s performance, the Mayor of Oldham, Cllr Chauhan, said: “They were absolutely fantastic.

“We have a proud history of producing amazingly gifted musicians in Oldham and our Symphony Orchestra are another shining example of the incredible talent we possess here in our borough. 

“They’ve been together for almost 60 years now, which is absolutely brilliant, and what’s even more special is during this time, their passion for music has continued to bring musicians of all ages, abilities and cultures in Oldham together.

“This is incredibly powerful and I was honoured to invite them for an early birthday get-together to celebrate their amazing history.”

Following celebrations, the orchestra went on to their weekly rehearsal at Shaw Lifelong Learning Centre as they continue to prepare for their main birthday concert coming up this Sunday (July 9) at St Paul’s Church in Royton.

Catherine Yates, of Oldham Symphony Orchestra, added: “We were delighted to receive such a kind invitation from the Mayor to perform in this Civic arena.

“We loved every minute of it and it’s so lovely to have our history recognised in such a special way.

“We hope everyone can join us again this weekend too for our birthday concert. It would mean the absolute world to us all, so please do come along and enjoy the show.”

If you would like to attend the orchestra’s upcoming birthday concert, tickets are available on the door on the night of the event, with music starting from 7.30pm.

For more information, visit: www.oldhamsymphonyorchestra.org.uk

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